Q: what is the physiology behind "alimentary hypoglycemia" in patients with dumping syndrome after gastric bypass surgery?



Answer: In patients with gastric surgery, the rapid "dumping" of food triggers the pancreas to release excessive amounts of insulin and to cause "alimentary hypoglycemia." To note, it has also been reported without any history of gastric surgery 1.


Reference:

1. M. Alan Permutt, M.D., John Kelly, M.D., Robert Bernstein, M.D., David H. Alpers, M.D., Barry A. Siegel, M.D., and David M. Kipnis, M.D. - Alimentary Hypoglycemia in the Absence of Gastrointestinal Surgery -  N Engl J Med 1973; 288:1206-1210 - June 7, 1973